There’s an old saying. A mother’s job is never done. The cooking, the cleaning, the nursing. The mental and physical load of a mother is never ending. That’s especially true if the mother is going through some type of flu. Yes, flu and cold seasons are especially hard on the family, but we would argue that they’re particularly hard on the breastfeeding mothers. Mothers who are breastfeeding their babies often wonder if they should continue with the breastfeeding while being sick, and we are here to clarify some misconceptions about that.
Breastfeeding while sick may become quite the challenge for the mother. Mostly because there are some safety measures in place, but also because it’s quite the unpleasant experience. Let’s face it. When you’re sick with the flu, all you want to do is lie in bed and be miserable. However, breastfeeding mothers don’t have that option. So, it’s best to ask…
Is It Safe for You to Breastfeed Your Baby While Being Sick?
Don’t worry. It’s very much safe to breastfeed your baby if you’re sick. As long as you take the proper hygiene steps such as washing hands, or wearing a mask, your baby will be safe. In fact, most health professionals encourage mothers to breastfeed their babies even trough sickness in order to maintain their milk supply.
Breastfeeding also provides a good dose of protection for your baby against the cold or flu, or other sickness that you’re experiencing. That’s thanks to the antibodies that are produced while you are sick, and stored in the breast milk.
However, whatever you do, do not stop breastfeeding (or pumping) in the period that you’re sick. Your milk supply may be affected, if that pause is much longer than a couple of days.
Is It Safe to Take Medicine While Breastfeeding?
When it comes to taking a medicine for flu or cold, it’s best to consult your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t take anything without consulting a medical professional, as some medicines could be harmful for your baby.
Usually, OTC products like paracetamol and ibuprofen, which are used when you have high body temperature or pain, are considered safe during breastfeeding. And maybe you would also need to take an antibiotic. Note to check with your doctor if it’s safe to take them while breastfeeding.
What Else Can You Do?
Well, you can take a supplement containing vitamins and minerals. The mother’s body gets exhausted from the breastfeeding, sleep deprivation and all the challenges during this period. So, supplementation with essential micronutrients would be beneficial for your overall health, not only your immune system.
It’s best to stay hydrated during this time as well. Drink plenty of fluids, and also crank up the humidifier. Dry air and poor ventilation can make the cold even worse. Try to rest and yes. Try to sleep when the baby sleeps. We know it’s not always possible but resting your body is very much needed when you’re sick, so make sure to get plenty of good rest. That also includes less home chores and less strenuous physical exhaustion.
Breastfeeding while being sick at the same time is challenging for sure. But you’ll have to do your best to stay calm and follow the advice of your health provider on what to do and take during this period, and remember. Most mothers will go through it at one point or another. This too shall pass.